Boosters Protest Bruce`s Firing

FT. COLLINS, COLO. — Colorado State boosters presented more than 2,500 signatures to the state Board of Agriculture on Wednesday to protest the handling of Earle Bruce`s firing last week.

The petitions question ``the managerial effectiveness of the Colorado State University president`s office and athletic department`` in its handling of Bruce`s firing Nov. 23, and criticizes the university`s disregard of

``progressive discipline.``

Bruce was fired for what the school said was creating a climate of ``fear and intimidation`` and for alleged NCAA rules violations. Bruce had two years remaining on his contract.

``While we`re not the ones to decide whether coach Bruce should stay or go, we want the entire process looked at and reformed, because a man`s dignity and reputation were ruined, when that didn`t need to happen,`` said Brian Baldwin, president of the Greater Ram Booster Club.

Colorado State president Albert Yates recommended to the board that it accept his decision to terminate Bruce, but asked that the board delay the termination until all of Bruce`s grievance policy options at the university are exhausted.